KISS 'Symphony' Producer Interviewed

February 20, 2008

As part of Greek webzine Rockpages' ongoing feature celebrating KISS' 35th anniversary, Sakis Nikas recently conducted an interview with Mark Opitz, the producer of "Kiss Symphony - Alive IV". A couple of excerpts from the chat follow:

Rockpages.gr: What was your first reaction when KISS approached you to produce one of the most bizarre musical combinations: rock 'n' roll and classical music?

Mark Opitz: Australian promoter Michael Gudinski recommended me to KISS. My reaction was not one of the bizarre but of the size and scope of the project. The actual audio recording alone required three tracks and a team of 12 engineers plus crew. The video side added at least another 40. The mix of rock and classical is not a new concept so that part didn't concern me as much as making sure we captured every note.

Rockpages.gr: Did you have the chance to spend time with KISS? If yes, what do you remember from them and how you would characterize each one of them?

Mark Opitz: We did spend a lot of time with KISS. After the recording of the event, we spent a week with them reviewing the material and fixing some technical errors. During that time there was a lot of one-on-one and I am sure a mutual respect developed. After that we flew to L.A. for two months to put the whole thing together for the DVD, CD, TV etc. During this time it was Gene [Simmons] and Paul [Stanley] who we would see maybe once a day for lunch and chat at the studio. We did spend time in Paul's home for a quiet dinner with him and his lovely lady. Paul is the main music guy and Gene is the big-picture guy in the relationship. Of course, there is also the manager Doc McGhee. I found Peter [Criss] to be a really nice guy who was just really happy to be there and taking part. Tommy Thayer is the ultimate professional and very easy to work with. Overall there is a much focused feeling about them all.

Read the entire interview at Rockpages.gr.

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